The BBL 2025 Draft is scheduled for June 19. Both the men’s and women’s Big Bash League drafts will occur on this single day. This earlier date helps clubs plan their rosters more effectively. It gives them more time to build strong squads.
A strong contingent of international cricketers has put their names forward. From Pakistan, Shaheen Shah Afridi leads the men’s draft nominations. Wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan, Other Pakistani stars, including Haris Rauf and Shadab Khan, are available, offering speed and all-round skills. England’s Sam Curran and Alex Hales are also prominent names. New Zealand’s quicks, Lockie Ferguson and Tim Southee, are on the list as well. West Indies’ Shamar Joseph and Sri Lanka’s Kusal Perera complete the initial men’s overseas roster.
For the WBBL, several major players have been nominated. India’s Jemimah Rodrigues and Shikha Pandey are notable. England’s Heather Knight, Sophie Ecclestone, Lauren Bell, and Danni Wyatt-Hodge also seek a spot. Pakistan’s captain, Fatima Sana, has entered the draft. West Indies’ Deandra Dottin and South Africa’s Shabnim Ismail are also keen to participate. Over 600 overseas players have registered.
The draft uses four distinct salary bands: Platinum, Gold, Silver, and Bronze. Platinum players are selected in Rounds 1 or 2. Gold players are available in Rounds 2 or 3. Silver players come in Rounds 3 or 4. Bronze players are only an option in Round 4. Teams can choose to pass on one draft selection. The draft order switches after the first round, ensuring fairness.
The draft order for the Men’s BBL 15 begins with Brisbane Heat, followed by Adelaide Strikers, Melbourne Renegades, Perth Scorchers, Hobart Hurricanes, Sydney Sixers, Melbourne Stars, and Sydney Thunder. For the WBBL 11, the order is: Sydney Sixers, Adelaide Strikers, Melbourne Stars, Perth Scorchers, Hobart Hurricanes, Sydney Thunder, Melbourne Renegades, and Brisbane Heat. The Brisbane Heat holds the first overall pick in the men’s draft. The Sydney Sixers have the first overall pick in the women’s draft.
In conclusion, the BBL 2025 Draft happening in June is a strategic move. It gives teams more time to plan their season. It also helps them secure top international talent. Many nominated players will be available for the entire season. This is because some international teams have fewer commitments during the BBL window. Their full availability makes these players highly desirable. This could lead to a more exciting BBL season.
